The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced new housing projects for judicial officers in Abuja, stating that President Bola Tinubu remains committed to improving the welfare and working conditions of the judiciary.
Wike made the announcement on Monday during the Special Court Session marking the commencement of the 2025/2026 Legal Year of the Court of Appeal.
According to the minister, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has made fresh budgetary provisions for the construction of additional residential houses for FCT High Court judges to address accommodation gaps and ensure judges are properly housed.
He said improved living and working conditions for judicial officers are central to strengthening the justice system, adding that well-equipped courts, chambers and support facilities are essential for efficient delivery of justice.
Wike also revealed that the FCTA has handed over the Certificate of Occupancy for the Supreme Court’s permanent site and commenced perimeter fencing of the entire complex to prevent encroachment and improve security.
He attributed the development to President Tinubu’s “decisive intervention”, noting that such actions restore confidence within the judiciary and enhance its operational independence.
The minister listed other ongoing FCTA projects targeted at the judiciary, including the construction of residential quarters for Heads of Courts, a new Magistrate Court Complex in Jabi District, staff quarters for the Nigerian Law School and the design and development of new Court of Appeal and Federal High Court facilities in Abuja.
Wike said the initiatives were designed to reduce pressure on outdated infrastructure and expand access to justice for residents of the FCT.
He assured that the administration would intensify support for justice sector reforms in the new legal year, with priority placed on completing ongoing court and residential projects.
The minister also reaffirmed plans to collaborate with the judiciary on the digitisation of court processes to reduce manual operations and speed up case dispensation.
Wike emphasised that access to decent housing remains essential for judicial officers to perform their duties without distractions.
